7 Years and So Much Left To Do

Being self-inspired is something I’ve always excelled at; I’m a self-starter. I push myself to be more than I was yesterday, and while that seems like enough, you will always have a day where you can’t channel your inner inspiration. That’s when you need the support of an external element to give you your daily jolt.

This may come from motivational videos online, quotes that resonate with you, friends and acquaintances, or simply by being at the right place at the right time. Something similar took place over a week ago where I was sitting with the Managing Director of the agency, as he was being interviewed by PRWeek; a situation I’m working towards daily. It was one of the days where self-inspiration just wasn’t enough, so thankfully his interview took place at the right time. I heard him talk about the various regions that are leading the charge in our industry and their value additions to the Middle East’s burgeoning PR network.

His insights also led me to understand and foresee the future of our industry, on a global, regional and local level. The inspiration rose from the learnings that he had to offer; who knew things were changing every minute?

Our industry makes us aware of more than the clients and sectors we cater to. From learning about F&B and their many subsidiaries to the automotive market globally and locally, I wouldn’t have sustained myself in any other industry if I didn’t learn as much as I do right now, simply due to the monotonous nature of the job.

Adding value to a conversation and someone’s business is a feeling that doesn’t go away; I’m truly blessed to be working in such a versatile, power-driven industry in one of the most progressive cities. I’ve come across a myriad of people from different walks of life, whether it’s varying personal interests, age groups, ethnicities etc. This ensures that no hour of my day is the same and below I would like to tell you why:

Relationships

• Client servicing is all about maintaining and building a relationship; Rapport with the media, a strong client relationship, a bond with colleagues and peers. How do I secure coverage? It depends on the angle of the story entirely, but also my sales technique. Am I contacting them just for coverage or do I stay in touch with the journalist on a personal level? Is this story relevant to their segment or interests?

Physical newspapers

• A daily routine of reading the newspapers and magazines in the morning increases your awareness on a global and local level. While it’s true that everything is going digital, reading a newspaper and debating the content with my colleagues in the newsroom is informative itself. We even discuss the focus situation and reimagine it within our hometowns to debate the possible outcomes. What better way to know the world right from where you are?

On the go

• I have frequently reiterated that in the PR industry you are always prepared. Either jumping on an opportunity outside or figuring out ways to let people know about the brands you work for; we’re on call 24/7. This is interesting since we need to understand the psychology of the customer in order to convey correctly so that they listen to us, and are convinced.

I could not imagine sitting at my desk and working without variety. For people that enjoy the adrenaline rush and are keen on improving your communication skills, you know which door to knock on!

Lovelyn Rodrigues is Account Manager at Cicero & Bernay Public Relations, an independent PR agency headquartered in Dubai offering new-age public relations consultancy to the UAE and across the MENA region. | www.cbpr.me